2024/03/31 Ban Mae Khi Loop

Back from our short hiatus of regular, longer Sunday hikes…

_{The hike is going ahead.}

_{Please assess the level of air pollution for your health and/or consider a mask.}

For this year’s Easter Sunday hike, we repeat the hike we did on Easter Sunday 2 years ago; a moderate loop through the farm and forest area around Ban Mae Khi.

After meeting at the 700-year stadium, the drive to the starting point will be about 45 minutes towards Mae Rim, then along the 1096 and 4043 to Ban Mae Khi.

From the parking space we follow the road a few hundred meters before turning off towards some farms and orange orchards, then into light forest and up towards the ridge.

About 4.5km into the hike is the steepest section where we climb about 120m over a short distance. A bit steeper, but nothing dangerous.

From there, our trail is pretty flat to our snack stop junction. After a rest we start the home-run, initially along the forest road, but then steering back onto a smaller, nicer trail down into the valley.

The final stretch will be through a farm, leading us back to the initial farm road and back to the parking lot.

We were not able to get confirmation if the noodle shop will be open on Sunday, but the shop is open and has a good selectin of cold drinks and the usual packed snacks. In short, after hike drinks ‘yes’, food ‘maybe’…

Leader: Othmar

• This hike is about 11.5km long with 430m altitude gain/loss.

• The start and end parts are exposed to the elements, so please ensure protection from the sun and you have sufficient water/drinks.

Meeting point: The open area in front of 700-Year Stadium (not inside) on the irrigation canal road (see satellite map below) at 07.20 for 07.30 departure.

Google Maps: Meeting place outside the 700 year stadium

Alternatively ready by the trail-head; 8:15am in the parking lot of Wat Maekhiwanaram.

Google Maps: Trail Head by Wat Maekhiwanaram

If you want to join, read our general advice on the above tabs, then if you are sure the hike is for you, just turn up at the meeting point on time. No groups please. No need to let us know you are coming. Note that places in cars cannot be guaranteed but are usually available. If you need a lift, offer your driver 100 baht towards fuel costs and bring a change of clothes/shoes for the return journey.

Please bring: As per usual advice (see tabs above), especially noting:

• Plenty of water and/or electrolyte drinks.
• Protection from the heat (start and end sections are exposed).
• Energy snacks and/or light picnic.
• Plenty of energy, enthusiasm, good humor, smiles and team spirit.